In one of the biggest moves ahead of the IPL 2027 season, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has made his way back to Delhi Capitals (DC) after Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) agreed to a high-profile trade involving spinner Kuldeep Yadav. The deal was finalized on June 23, bringing an end to Pant’s brief stint with the Lucknow-based franchise.
Rishabh Pant Takes Significant Salary Reduction
Pant’s return to Delhi Capitals comes with a notable reduction in salary. The star batter, who was signed by LSG for a record-breaking ₹27 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction, will now join DC on a contract worth ₹15 crore.
The move marks one of the most significant pay cuts involving a marquee IPL player in recent years. When LSG secured Pant’s services, the franchise viewed him as a long-term leader. However, two disappointing seasons prompted a change in direction.
LSG and Pant Part Ways After Difficult Two Seasons
Pant’s tenure with Lucknow Super Giants failed to deliver the results the franchise had hoped for. Under his captaincy, LSG struggled to establish consistency and missed expectations in consecutive campaigns.
The team finished seventh in the IPL 2025 standings after winning six of its 14 league matches. Things worsened in IPL 2026, with Lucknow ending at the bottom of the table after managing only four victories throughout the season.
His individual performances with the bat also came under scrutiny. Pant scored 269 runs in 14 matches during the 2025 season and followed it up with 312 runs in IPL 2026, registering only one half-century across the campaign.
Homecoming for Pant at Delhi Capitals
The trade sees Pant return to the franchise where he built much of his IPL legacy. Between 2016 and 2024, he represented Delhi Capitals in 111 matches and emerged as one of the team’s most influential players.
He also captained the side from 2021 to 2024, leading Delhi in 43 matches during that period. With his return, the Capitals will hope the familiar environment helps him rediscover his best form ahead of the next season.
Kuldeep Yadav Heads to Lucknow Super Giants
As part of the trade agreement, left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav has joined Lucknow Super Giants on his existing contract valued at ₹13.5 crore.
Kuldeep was a key member of Delhi Capitals since arriving ahead of IPL 2022 and played an important role in the team’s bowling attack. During his stint with DC, he claimed 72 wickets in 65 appearances.
However, the spinner endured a challenging IPL 2026 season, managing just 10 wickets in 14 matches while conceding runs at an economy rate above 10 per over.
Major Shake-Up Ahead of IPL 2027
The Pant-Kuldeep trade is expected to be one of the most talked-about moves of the IPL offseason. Delhi Capitals have brought back a player deeply connected to the franchise, while Lucknow Super Giants have strengthened their spin department with an experienced wicket-taking bowler.
With both players looking to revive their fortunes, the trade could prove crucial in shaping the fortunes of their new teams in IPL 2027.
